Tuesday, August 05, 2014

UNITY IN CHRIST = 1 Corinthians 1:10-13

In 1 Corinthians1:10-13, Paul pleaded with the Corinthians to quit having divisions in their church. Instead, they were to have unity. The divisions in the Corinthian church centered around devotion to particular leaders. Some followed Apollos, some Peter, and some Paul. Some claimed to follow only Christ.

Sadly, the Corinthian church continued to have problems with this issue. Clement was a leader in the church at Rome at the end of the first century. He wrote a letter to the church in Corinth rebuking its jealousy and strife. That means that, half a century after Paul wrote, the church struggled with the same problem.

The problem continues today. Some divisions cannot be helped, as those who pursue false doctrine break off to form cults. But, many churches are split over other issues. Many churches in America struggle with the style of music they will utilize in worship. The members will not compromise and hear some of each style. So, either the church provides multiple services or one group splits off to form a new church. Both have happened in our city.

Sometimes churches divide over powerful persons in the church, somewhat as in Corinth. Various leaders vie for power with each other. There are many things we can divide over us.

But Paul points out that Christ is not divided. (1:13) Therefore, Christ's disciples should not be divided. Ephesians 4:3 says we are to be eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Love should abound, grace should prevail and humility should be the common personality trait.